---
product_id: 269081353
title: "TP-Link TL-WA1201, AC1200 Dual Band Wireless Gigabit Access Point"
brand: "tp-link"
price: "R2338"
currency: ZAR
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 13
category: "Tp Link"
url: https://www.desertcart.co.za/products/269081353-tp-link-tl-wa1201-ac1200-dual-band-wireless-gigabit-access
store_origin: ZA
region: South Africa
---

# 1200 Mbps dual-band speed MU-MIMO + Beamforming tech PoE powered for flexible setup TP-Link TL-WA1201, AC1200 Dual Band Wireless Gigabit Access Point

**Brand:** tp-link
**Price:** R2338
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🚀 Elevate your workspace Wi-Fi game—fast, flexible, and future-ready!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** TP-Link TL-WA1201, AC1200 Dual Band Wireless Gigabit Access Point by tp-link
- **How much does it cost?** R2338 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.co.za](https://www.desertcart.co.za/products/269081353-tp-link-tl-wa1201-ac1200-dual-band-wireless-gigabit-access)

## Best For

- tp-link enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted tp-link brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Multi-Mode Mastery:** Seamlessly switch between Access Point, Range Extender, Client, and Multi-SSID modes to fit any network need
- • **Effortless Deployment:** Passive PoE support lets you place your AP anywhere—no power outlet? No problem.
- • **Blazing Dual-Band Speeds:** Up to 1200 Mbps with simultaneous 2.4GHz & 5GHz for lag-free streaming & multitasking
- • **Gigabit Ethernet Backbone:** High-speed wired port ensures zero bottlenecks for your wired devices or backhaul connections
- • **Precision Signal Targeting:** Four fixed antennas with Beamforming focus Wi-Fi where you need it most, eliminating dead zones

## Overview

The TP-Link TL-WA1201 is a versatile AC1200 dual-band wireless access point featuring MU-MIMO and Beamforming for superior multi-device performance. It supports four operation modes including Access Point and Range Extender, powered flexibly via Passive PoE. With a Gigabit Ethernet port and advanced WPA/WPA2 security, it delivers reliable, high-speed connectivity ideal for home offices and professional environments.

## Description

TP-Link AC1200 Wireless Access Point

Review: Stock firmware is unstable on 5GHz, but OpenWRT works great - TL;dr -- this AP is another case of good hardware, awful firmware. The OEM firmware makes this device unusable, but flashing OpenWRT makes it useful again. Full Review: I bought this access point to use as a wireless client bridge for a computer in my house that gets an extremely poor wireless signal. Initially, I was disappointed because I was limited to a 2.4GHz connection, as the 5GHz connection was too unstable to be used. I'd regularly run into issues watching YouTube videos, browsing the web, or making Zoom calls. The solution was to use the 2.4GHz radio instead. This meant that my connection was limited to ~45-60mbps, which pales in comparison to a typical 5GHz connection speed of ~250-300mbps. For reference, my iPhone 11 is able to pull ~560-620mbps when placed next to the hardwired access point. i initially considered returning the AP, but then I found someone online had ported OpenWRT to this access point. Although this may void the warranty, it solved my issue. No longer do I have stability issues with the 5GHz radio, which means that I have both a reliable and fast connection to the Internet again my home office. OpenWRT is great, although it's far more complicated of an interface than the default TP-Link one. I would not recommend using this device in this configuration unless you're familiar with more advanced networking concepts or are willing to learn. Pros: - Inexpensive - Supports wireless client bridge mode. - Supports PoE using the provided injector. This is extremely beneficial to my setup, since I can place the AP where I best receive a signal, even though I don't have a power outlet nearby. - The Qualcomm Atheros QCA9886 802.11acn wireless radio has excellent performance - Gigabit LAN port (to the reviewer claiming it doesn't have one, this is simply not the case; there's no way I'd be able to pull 300mbps if it had a 10/100 interface). - The default firmware supports bridge mode with DHCP & NAT disabled, which means that every device connected through this AP has its real Ethernet MAC address exposed. If you plan to use this on a college campus or want your connected device(s) to be bridged to the parent network, this is very useful. If you use this mode, you can still control the AP's settings using the assign IP address for the access point itself. Cons: - Default firmware means that the 5GHz radio is unstable. I also had problems with controlling the LEDs and updating settings. Bonus Pro-tip: I only used this device with one computer, but you could easily use an Ethernet switch with the single port on the back of this device to connect multiple computers/devices.
Review: Flexible, Reliable, and Seriously Underrated - This little beast supports four modes out of the box: Access Point Mode – turn wired into wireless ✔️ Range Extender Mode – repeat an existing signal ✔️ Client Mode – convert Ethernet-only devices (like a printer or old PC) into Wi-Fi clients ✔️ Multi-SSID Mode – create segmented guest networks with VLANs ✔️ I ran this in both Access Point and Extender modes in a tricky layout (concrete walls, multi-floor), and it pushed out clean dual-band signal without any noticeable lag or packet loss. Plus, MU-MIMO and beamforming help direct the signal where it matters—great for multi-device households or streaming-heavy setups. What I Like: Dual-band speeds (867 Mbps on 5GHz + 300 Mbps on 2.4GHz)—solid for most streaming and gaming Gigabit Ethernet port = no bottleneck on backhaul or client mode Passive PoE support—clean mounting, especially if you're running it up a wall or ceiling Four fixed antennas deliver real coverage, not just marketing fluff Pro Tips: Pair with a modern router for max benefit—don't bottleneck this thing with an old base station Use a dedicated SSID in AP mode for clean handoff between routers In Range Extender mode, place it midway between router and dead zone for best balance of signal vs. speed What Could Be Better: Web interface is solid but not quite as slick as newer TP-Link Omada gear Fixed antennas = solid signal but less customization of direction No mesh functionality—if you want seamless handoff, go Deco instead TL;DR: The TP-Link TL-WA1201 is a super versatile, cost-effective, and stable Wi-Fi extender/access point. Whether you’re bridging old gear, extending signal to a dead zone, or segmenting networks with VLANs—it handles it all quietly and efficiently. No dropped Zoom calls. No gaming lag. Just clean, customizable Wi-Fi wherever you need it.

## Features

- Superior Speeds with MU-MIMO: Outfitted with the latest 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology, the TL-WA1201 easily delivers dual-band Wi-Fi speeds of up to 1200 Mbps to multiple devices at the same time
- Multi-Mode 4 in 1: Supports Client, Multi-SSID, Range Extender, and AP operation modes to enable various wireless applications to give users a more dynamic and comprehensive experience when using your AP
- PoE for Easy Installation: TL-WA1201 supports Passive PoE power supplies, can be powered by the provided PoE adapter, making deployment effortless and flexible
- Boosted Wi-Fi Coverage: Four external antennas equipped with Beamforming technology concentrate Wi-Fi signals towards your devices to extend reliable Wi-Fi to every corner of your home or office, even over long distances
- Gigabit Ethernet Port: Features a Gigabit Ethernet port that provides high-speed wired connectivity for devices requiring stable and fast network connections
- Dual-Band Wireless Technology: Operates on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands to reduce interference and provide optimal performance for all your connected devices
- Advanced Security Features: Supports multiple wireless security protocols including WPA/WPA2 encryption to protect your network from unauthorized access and ensure safe data transmission

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B08SBXVSF3 |
| Antenna Location | Home |
| Antenna Type | Fixed |
| Best Sellers Rank | #8 in Computer Networking Wireless Access Points |
| Brand | TP-Link |
| Built-In Media | Power Adapter, Quick Installation Guide, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Wireless Access Point TL-WA1201 |
| Color | White |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Connectivity Protocol | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Connectivity Technology | Ethernet |
| Control Method | Touch |
| Controller Type | Switch |
| Coverage | Extensive coverage |
| Customer Reviews | 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,131 Reviews |
| Data Transfer Rate | 1200 megabits_per_second |
| Frequency | 5 |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 8.86"L x 5.73"W x 1.46"H |
| Item Highlight | Desktop WiFi Bridge, MU-MIMO Beamforming, Support Multi SSID Client Range Extender Mode, 4 Fixed Antennas |
| Item Type Name | Access Point |
| Item Weight | 0.3 kg |
| LAN Port Bandwidth | 1000 Mbps |
| Manufacturer | TP-Link |
| Maximum Upstream Data Transfer Rate | 600 megabits_per_second |
| Mfr Part Number | TL-WA1201 |
| Model Name | TL-WA1201 |
| Model Number | TL-WA1201 |
| Number of Antennas | 4 |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Number of Ports | 1 |
| Operating System | ZyNOS |
| Other Special Features of the Product | WPS |
| Router Firewall Security Level | Moderate to High |
| Router Network Type | Wireless |
| Security Protocol | WPA, WPA2, WPA-PSK, WPA-PSK2 |
| Special Feature | WPS |
| UPC | 840460603102 845973084035 |
| Voltage | 12 volts_of_direct_current |
| Warranty Description | 2 year warranty |
| Wi-Fi Generation | Wi-Fi 5 |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11a, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n |
| Wireless Compability | 802.11a, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** TP-Link
- **Color:** White
- **Compatible Devices:** Personal Computer
- **Connectivity Technology:** Ethernet
- **Frequency Band Class:** Dual-Band
- **Included Components:** Power Adapter, Quick Installation Guide, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Wireless Access Point TL-WA1201
- **Model Name:** TL-WA1201
- **Recommended Uses For Product:** Home
- **Special Feature:** WPS
- **Wireless Communication Standard:** 802.11a, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n

## Images

![TP-Link TL-WA1201, AC1200 Dual Band Wireless Gigabit Access Point - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51tqA2YM6yL.jpg)

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stock firmware is unstable on 5GHz, but OpenWRT works great
*by R***F on September 9, 2021*

TL;dr -- this AP is another case of good hardware, awful firmware. The OEM firmware makes this device unusable, but flashing OpenWRT makes it useful again. Full Review: I bought this access point to use as a wireless client bridge for a computer in my house that gets an extremely poor wireless signal. Initially, I was disappointed because I was limited to a 2.4GHz connection, as the 5GHz connection was too unstable to be used. I'd regularly run into issues watching YouTube videos, browsing the web, or making Zoom calls. The solution was to use the 2.4GHz radio instead. This meant that my connection was limited to ~45-60mbps, which pales in comparison to a typical 5GHz connection speed of ~250-300mbps. For reference, my iPhone 11 is able to pull ~560-620mbps when placed next to the hardwired access point. i initially considered returning the AP, but then I found someone online had ported OpenWRT to this access point. Although this may void the warranty, it solved my issue. No longer do I have stability issues with the 5GHz radio, which means that I have both a reliable and fast connection to the Internet again my home office. OpenWRT is great, although it's far more complicated of an interface than the default TP-Link one. I would not recommend using this device in this configuration unless you're familiar with more advanced networking concepts or are willing to learn. Pros: - Inexpensive - Supports wireless client bridge mode. - Supports PoE using the provided injector. This is extremely beneficial to my setup, since I can place the AP where I best receive a signal, even though I don't have a power outlet nearby. - The Qualcomm Atheros QCA9886 802.11acn wireless radio has excellent performance - Gigabit LAN port (to the reviewer claiming it doesn't have one, this is simply not the case; there's no way I'd be able to pull 300mbps if it had a 10/100 interface). - The default firmware supports bridge mode with DHCP & NAT disabled, which means that every device connected through this AP has its real Ethernet MAC address exposed. If you plan to use this on a college campus or want your connected device(s) to be bridged to the parent network, this is very useful. If you use this mode, you can still control the AP's settings using the assign IP address for the access point itself. Cons: - Default firmware means that the 5GHz radio is unstable. I also had problems with controlling the LEDs and updating settings. Bonus Pro-tip: I only used this device with one computer, but you could easily use an Ethernet switch with the single port on the back of this device to connect multiple computers/devices.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Flexible, Reliable, and Seriously Underrated
*by I***Y on March 29, 2025*

This little beast supports four modes out of the box: Access Point Mode – turn wired into wireless ✔️ Range Extender Mode – repeat an existing signal ✔️ Client Mode – convert Ethernet-only devices (like a printer or old PC) into Wi-Fi clients ✔️ Multi-SSID Mode – create segmented guest networks with VLANs ✔️ I ran this in both Access Point and Extender modes in a tricky layout (concrete walls, multi-floor), and it pushed out clean dual-band signal without any noticeable lag or packet loss. Plus, MU-MIMO and beamforming help direct the signal where it matters—great for multi-device households or streaming-heavy setups. What I Like: Dual-band speeds (867 Mbps on 5GHz + 300 Mbps on 2.4GHz)—solid for most streaming and gaming Gigabit Ethernet port = no bottleneck on backhaul or client mode Passive PoE support—clean mounting, especially if you're running it up a wall or ceiling Four fixed antennas deliver real coverage, not just marketing fluff Pro Tips: Pair with a modern router for max benefit—don't bottleneck this thing with an old base station Use a dedicated SSID in AP mode for clean handoff between routers In Range Extender mode, place it midway between router and dead zone for best balance of signal vs. speed What Could Be Better: Web interface is solid but not quite as slick as newer TP-Link Omada gear Fixed antennas = solid signal but less customization of direction No mesh functionality—if you want seamless handoff, go Deco instead TL;DR: The TP-Link TL-WA1201 is a super versatile, cost-effective, and stable Wi-Fi extender/access point. Whether you’re bridging old gear, extending signal to a dead zone, or segmenting networks with VLANs—it handles it all quietly and efficiently. No dropped Zoom calls. No gaming lag. Just clean, customizable Wi-Fi wherever you need it.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Fantastic piece, it's the BOMB!
*by C***E on October 20, 2025*

This piece is the BOMB !! TP-Link TL-WA-1201 I had let two different 'range extender' pieces drive me nuts, their software was hard to use, but once figured out it still didn't work, signal was lame and choppy. So drilled into web and learned superiority of Access Point. Thought I'd try a base monel to learn on. Trust me, TP-Link really knows what they're doing. Instructions were clear, everything I was sent to look for was there, the steps made sense, their website fed back reliably, and within a couple hours IT WORKED! And it waxs LOUD! Signal next to it 76%, outdoors 30-ft from unit is still 65%. Amazing, Software is brilliant, now that I did one, doing the next will take about ten minutes, it's a breeze to work with. BUY THIS, even if you don't need it. Yet. You will, it's a spoiler.

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*Product available on Desertcart South Africa*
*Store origin: ZA*
*Last updated: 2026-09-25*